CD Projekt Red Targets 2028 for Next Major Witcher Game

CD Projekt Red is targeting a 2028 release date for the next major installment in The Witcher series. The announcement provides a concrete window for the highly anticipated RPG sequel, signaling a long-term commitment to the franchise's return.

Internally referred to as "Project Polaris," the game is being developed using Unreal Engine 5. Joint-CEO Michal Nowakowski has set a high bar for the title, describing the project as the studio's "biggest, boldest, and most ambitious game to date."

A Strategic Shift in Development

The move to Unreal Engine 5 represents a significant technical pivot for CD Projekt Red. By transitioning away from its proprietary tools, the studio aims to streamline the production of a world that matches the scale of its ambitions. This shift comes as the developer builds upon the legacy of The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt, one of the most critically acclaimed RPGs in history, while navigating the lessons learned from the development and launch of Cyberpunk 2077.

Avoiding Past Pitfalls

The 2028 target suggests an extensive development cycle, reflecting a cautious approach to quality assurance. Industry analysts note that this timeline likely stems from a desire to avoid the technical launch issues that plagued Cyberpunk 2077. By allocating several years to production, CD Projekt Red is prioritizing stability and polish over a rushed release, ensuring that the "ambitious" narrative and technical scope of the new engine are fully realized before the game reaches consumers.

The Road to Polaris

While the 2028 window provides a general timeframe, the studio has not yet detailed the specific plot or protagonist of the new entry. Observers will be watching for further updates on how the transition to Unreal Engine 5 affects the game's performance and visual fidelity. For now, the industry remains focused on whether the studio can balance its massive ambitions with a stable delivery in four years. The transition to a third-party engine is expected to reduce the technical overhead that often accompanies proprietary software, potentially allowing the team to focus more on narrative depth and world-building rather than engine architecture.